Wetland ecosystems

The Ecological and Water Resources Division collects, analyzes, and delivers vital ecological information on Minnesota wetland ecosystems through a variety of programs, publications, and other resources.

Wetland ecosystems questions & answers

What permits are needed to alter wetlands?

There are a number of state and federal programs that regulate alterations to wetlands. For an overview and contact information, request a copy of the brochure, Wetland Regulation in Minnesota by calling the DNR Ecological Resources Division at (651) 259-5100 or through the Wetlands Program Publication page. (Also available on the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) Web site.)

For information on permits for harvesting or controlling wetland plants, contact the Aquatic Plant Management Program.

Some areas also have local ordinances pertaining to wetland alterations that may be more restrictive than state law. For information, contact your city planning and zoning or environmental department or your local watershed district (link to Minnesota Association of Watershed Districts, where you can find your watershed district, if one exists).

There's a development going in near my house and they are destroying wetlands. Can they do that?

As discussed in the previous question, impacts to wetlands are regulated by a variety of state and federal laws, and in some areas, local ordinances. Most of these regulations do not completely prohibit wetland impacts. Rather, they require project proponents to demonstrate that their project is needed and to show that there is no reasonable way to avoid altering the wetland. If the project passes these tests, wetland regulations generally require the project sponsor to compensate for the lost wetlands by restoring previously drained or filled wetlands or by creating new wetlands.

To find out the permitting status for a particular project in your area, start by contacting your local Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD).

If you are concerned that a particular draining or filling activity is unauthorized, contact your local DNR conservation officer and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Phone numbers for conservation officers can be obtained by calling (651) 296-6157 in the Twin Cities or toll free at (888) 646-6367. The Corps of Engineers telephone number is (651) 290-5375.

What are calcareous fens and what's special about them?

Calcareous fens are rare peat wetlands characterized by cold upwelling groundwater containing dissolved calcium and magnesium, creating ecological conditions favorable for several rare plants species. Calcareous fens have special protection under the Minnesota Wetlands Conservation Act. More information on calcareous fens can be found here.